Guinea pigs are fairly sturdy but can be injured if handled roughly or even killed if dropped. Thus you need to learn to pick up your guinea pig properly. Make sure your pig is comfortable with you by talking or singing to him from outside the cage. Drape your hand inside the cage to explore and even try hand feeding your pig. Once you are ready to pick up your guinea pig, act quickly and efficiently. Place one hand under your pig’s chest behind the front legs. Use the other hand to scoop up your pig’s rear end. Lift your pig and pull him to your chest. Be prepared to lower your guinea pig to the floor if he starts wriggling and could fall. You can teach older children to pick up your guinea pig properly but bring him to a seated younger child. For more information, contact your Tipp City, OH veterinarian.